Why does temperature decrease with depth underwater?

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between density and temperature in deep water. The person is initially confused about why deep water is colder despite the increase in pressure, but realizes that this is not always the case. They also mention that this relationship may vary depending on location.
  • #1
youngdylz
2
0
Seems like an easy question yet I can't find an answer. Obviously the surface layer of the ocean gets more sunlight but I don't think that is the reason deep water is colder. The increase in pressure usually increases the temperature but this seems to be the exception. Thanks for taking the time to answer
 
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  • #2
How does density depend upon temperature?
 
  • #3
Bystander said:
How does density depend upon temperature?
aha seems I was looking in all the wrong places. Thank you
 
  • #4
Before asking why something is true, you should first ask if it is true. Your statement is true in the tropics. Is it true at the poles?
 

Related to Why does temperature decrease with depth underwater?

1. Why does temperature decrease with depth underwater?

Temperature decreases with depth underwater due to a phenomenon called thermocline. This is the layer of water that separates the warm surface layer from the colder deep water layer. As you go deeper into the ocean, the sunlight is unable to penetrate through the water, resulting in a decrease in temperature.

2. How does pressure affect temperature underwater?

As depth increases, the pressure also increases. This change in pressure affects the density of water, causing it to become colder. This is known as adiabatic cooling, where the temperature of a gas or liquid decreases as it expands due to a decrease in pressure.

3. Does the temperature decrease at a constant rate with depth?

No, the temperature decrease with depth underwater is not constant. The rate of change in temperature depends on various factors such as location, season, and water currents. In some areas, the temperature may decrease rapidly with depth, while in others, it may remain relatively constant.

4. How does depth affect the temperature of the ocean's layers?

The temperature of the ocean's layers is affected by depth because of the different levels of sunlight penetration. The surface layer, also known as the epipelagic zone, is the warmest because it receives the most sunlight. As you go deeper into the mesopelagic and bathypelagic zones, the temperature decreases due to less sunlight reaching those depths.

5. Is there a minimum temperature at the bottom of the ocean?

Yes, there is a minimum temperature at the bottom of the ocean, also known as the ocean floor. This temperature varies depending on the location but is typically around 2-4 degrees Celsius. This is because the water at the bottom is not only affected by depth but also by the geothermal heat from the Earth's core.

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